Michelle Voll

"What excites me about my academic field is to be able to integrate evidence-based medicine with traditional use of herbs along with coaching techniques to help clients tap into their inner motivations, align their wellness goals with their values, and fulfill their higher life purpose."

What drew you to MUIH?

MUIH is the only institution that I found that combines a scientific framework with ancient wisdom traditions. I believe this is giving me the foundational knowledge and expertise to develop a health and wellness practice.

In 2012, I graduated with the Certificate in Medical Herbalism. Currently, I am enrolled in the Master of Science in Therapeutic Herbalism and Master of Arts in Health and Wellness Coaching. I expect to enroll in the Post-Master’s Certificate in Clinical Herbalism this fall.

What excited you about your academic field?

In 2001, I started my own management consulting business to improve the employment, social, and health outcomes of high poverty communities around the country. I have been working with companies such as CVS Caremark to assist them in winning workforce development grants to develop training and apprenticeship programs in pharmacy technology.

At the same time, I have been studying natural medicine and have pursued holistic solutions to benefit my own personal wellness. I am excited to be able to anchor my own life, study, and work experiences through the academic programs at MUIH. What excites me about my academic field is to be able to integrate evidence-based medicine with traditional use of herbs along with coaching techniques to help clients tap into their inner motivations, align their wellness goals with their values, and fulfill their higher life purpose.

Has there been a course you’ve particularly enjoyed?

All my courses have been fascinating for different reasons. I really enjoyed writing the historical paper for the course Fundamentals of Herbal Medicine: Past to Present, Soil to Clinic. The paper gave me the opportunity to connect to my German roots as I explored the teachings of Hildegard von Bingen, a Catholic nun in the 12th Century who is credited as the first published woman physician and who produced major works of theology, science and medicine.

Can you speak about the faculty here?

The faculty is excellent—personally interested in students’ growth and development. The faculty’s diverse backgrounds in clinical practice, research, and the marketplace enrich their ability to teach and help students apply what they are learning.

What’s your best MUIH memory?

Being able to touch and harvest Goldenseal and Black Cohosh with fellow classmates during a field trip to Shaver’s Creek, Pennsylvania. The fellowship with other students and peer learning is the most valuable experience. I enjoyed making herbal medicines with others and working online in a team to create our own wellness product.

How will you use what you’ve learned here?

Upon completion of my degrees, I want to serve as a practitioner and entrepreneur in the field of wellness and botanical medicine. My first goal is to practice as a coach and herbalist through my own private practice offering wellness coaching and herbal consultations. My second goal is to create natural healing communities through a nationwide green apothecary retail chain with a clinic, research, and education focus in holistic health and wellness.

What would you say about MUIH to a prospective student who is interested in attending?

This is a caring community that will greatly advance your academic learning and clinical application. You will learn how to be a “healing presence” to others. The faculty and your fellow students will surprise you with unexpected gifts contributing to your own healing and personal growth.